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Erykah Badu
Article for Riffin' by Webjockey Fashionboyz
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Being Badu
Neo-soul songstress Erykah Badu was known as much for her soulful lyrics as for her African influenced pro-feminist style. Live performances of her crooning into the microphone were complemented with visuals provided by her colorful clothing, head wraps and eccentric jewelry.
The 1997 release of "Baduizm" garnered triple platinum sales and won a Grammy in 1998. Dubbed the "Queen of Neo-Soul" she was often compared with such luminaries as Billie Holiday. With a voice that broke from the rock and grunge of the early 90’s and provided a strong and solid contrast to the late 90’s pop hitting the airwaves, Erykah hit the scene hard and fast.
Lauded by many for celebrating her African heritage with her fashion choices, she was instrumental in asserting that a woman’s personal and cultural identity should be celebrated through dress. The head wraps and colorful garments showcase her African ancestral past and the handcrafted, artisan jewelry was often forged specifically for her.
She even changed her name to reclaim her identity. When she was young she changed the spelling of "Erica" to "Erykah" in order to emancipate her given "slave name." The suffix "kah" she believes represents her inner self, and her last name, "Badu," means "can do no wrong" when translated from Muslim.
Regardless if she is getting press for her albums, collaborations with various other performers or romantic engagements, her fashion sense is always impeccably effortless and individually Erykah.
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